"I detest them. But why shouldn't they all go still, and the Tracys too?" asked blundering Isabel.
Emmeline met the suggestion by silence.
"My dear, that would not do," said Mrs. Erskine. "We can't inflict utter strangers upon Mrs. Claughton."
"But couldn't—" Isabel hesitated, and looked at Dolly with a meaning glance, which Dolly did not see, but felt. A swift flush rose to the girl's pale cheeks.
"My father would not think of leaving Colonel Tracy," said Margot, purposely misunderstanding the question. "It is unfortunate, but I am afraid the thing can't be."
"If the Tracys could be put off for two days," said Isabel.
Dolly spoke up suddenly. "O no; my father would be so disappointed. Very likely, that would mean they're not coming at all. It can't be helped."
"It is very unfortunate," said Emmeline.
"Things won't always fit in just as one wishes," said Dolly. Then she left her seat and went towards the door. "Margot, I quite forgot to see to those Christmas roses in your room. I'll do it now."
Margot simply said, "Thank you."